Giovanni Leoni’s Injury Update: Liverpool Defender Faces Long Layoff After ACL Blow

Liverpool have confirmed that young defender Giovanni Leoni suffered a serious knee injury on his debut against Southampton. The 18-year-old went down in the Carabao Cup tie at Anfield on Tuesday and was stretchered off in visible pain. Medical tests now indicate damage to his anterior cruciate ligament, ruling him out for several months.

The setback comes just weeks after Leoni completed his £26m move from Parma. It leaves manager Arne Slot short of defensive options as Liverpool continue their Premier League title defence and prepare for European fixtures.

Details of Giovanni Leoni’s Injury and Recovery Timeline

Leoni played 81 minutes in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Southampton before collapsing after a non-contact incident. Arne Slot admitted after the match that the defender “didn’t feel good immediately,” hinting at the severity of the injury. BBC Sport and Reuters have reported that club doctors suspect a torn ACL in Leoni’s left knee, an injury that typically requires surgery and up to nine months of recovery.

Liverpool have not provided an official return date, but insiders say the absence is likely to last the majority of the 2025-26 season. The Reds will have to rely on Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez as their only senior centre-backs. Midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo could provide emergency cover if injuries worsen before January.

Leoni took to Instagram on Wednesday to thank supporters, writing: “It wasn’t the debut I had always dreamed of, but I will give everything to be back playing in this magical stadium as soon as possible.” Teammates Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Jayden Danns, Andy Robertson and captain Virgil van Dijk were among those sending messages of encouragement.

Liverpool Squad Impact and Transfer Implications

This blow creates a defensive headache for Arne Slot just as Liverpool aim to maintain their perfect Premier League start. The January transfer window could now become critical if the club decide to recruit another centre-back. Reports from the Liverpool Echo and other UK outlets say the club will consider recalling players on loan or making an emergency signing if injuries worsen.

The Reds can update their Champions League squad to replace Leoni, though options will depend on available non-registered players. Federico Chiesa is among those who could benefit from squad reshuffles.

Giovanni Leoni’s injury update is a major setback for Liverpool’s defensive depth. Fans and teammates have rallied around the teenager, but his road back from an ACL tear could stretch deep into 2026.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How long will Giovanni Leoni be out?

Early reports say several months, possibly the entire 2025-26 season due to ACL damage.

Q2: Who replaces Giovanni Leoni in Liverpool’s defence?

Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez are the remaining senior centre-backs. Midfielders may provide cover if needed.

Q3: What did Giovanni Leoni say after his injury?

He thanked fans on Instagram, saying he will “give everything to be back playing in this magical stadium.”

Q4: Could Liverpool sign a new defender in January?

Yes. UK reports say the club may consider a defensive signing or loan recall during the winter transfer window.

Q5: What match did the injury happen in?

Leoni was injured during the Carabao Cup third-round tie against Southampton at Anfield on 23 September 2025.